Cal Athletics Fund Thank You and Awards Celebration

 

Bears honor generous supporters and distinguished awards recipients

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We joined together virtually to recognize our most dedicated and generous supporters at the Cal Athletics Fund Thank You and Awards Celebration on April 29. Director of Athletics Jim Knowlton and Chancellor Carol Christ, and Associate Athletics Director for Development Beth Tafolla-Voetsch (our event host) were among the speakers who expressed their sincere gratitude for the Cal Athletics supporters who provide exceptional experience for the Golden Bears’ 850 student-athletes.

 

In normal circumstances, we would gather at the Claremont Hotel in Berkeley and hear from student-athletes about their journeys at Cal and how appreciative they are of our supporters who help provide the best opportunities for them to prepare to thrive as graduates of the No. 1 public university in the United States. The annual event recognizes supporters who give a minimum of $1200 in a fiscal year to Cal Athletics. 

 

Two awards were given in each category since last year’s event was cancelled due to the pandemic. The celebration also featured two student-athlete videos: “A Day in the Life of a Student-Athlete” - senior gymnast Kyana George; and “What opportunities are you grateful for from Cal.”  

 

Cub of the Year 

Francesca Weems ‘09 and Robert Paylor '20

presented by Associate Athletics Director Beth Tafolla-Voetsch

 

The award is presented to an individual for outstanding volunteer service shown by our young alumni.

 

Cal Spirit Recognition Award

Bob Jacobsen 

George Miller '61 and Janet McKinley
presented by Associate Athletics Director Beth Tafolla-Voetsch

 

The award is presented to an individual who has been outstanding in demonstrating spirit for the University of California.

 

Golden Bear of the Year 

Bill Ausfahl '61 

presented by Former Big C Society Executive Director Joe Ruef

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Brad Brian '74
presented by Cal baseball head coach Mike Neu

 

Bear of the Year

C. Bryan Cameron 

presented by Associate Athletic Director Dr. Marissa Nichols
 

Lynda Brothers '68 

presented by Cal head softball coach Chelsea Spencer

The award is given for outstanding contributions of volunteer service and financial support toward the continuing excellence of Cal Athletics.

 

Congratulations to this year’s honorees, and we look forward to seeing everyone in person next year to celebrate the accomplishments of our student-athletes and our generous and loyal Cal Family who make it all possible.